Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav announced that the state government is in the process of developing a comprehensive space policy and has begun discussions to establish a center for the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in Madhya Pradesh.

The CM made these statements from Samatva Bhavan at Bhopal while virtually inaugurating the ‘National Scientific Conference/Science Festival’ and the ‘40th Madhya Pradesh Young Scientists Conference,’ taking place at the Kalidas Academy campus in Ujjain.

Dr. Yadav highlighted the transformative impact of science and technology across various sectors, including agriculture, finance, manufacturing, medicine, education, and communication.

He revealed that during the Global Investors Summit in February, the state launched four initiatives aimed at leveraging science and technology. Dr. Yadav expressed a commitment to expanding scientific applications in Madhya Pradesh to position the state as a hub for technology and innovation. Discussions are also underway to develop an ISRO-like center in partnership with scientific institutions and the local scientific community.

He emphasized the increasing role of science in medicine and agriculture in Madhya Pradesh, particularly with regard to the use of drones. The state has initiated drone-based mapping in the revenue department, with a pilot project for urban land surveys in Raisen. This effort aims to create digital maps of lands, plots, and settlements, thereby improving property ownership records.

CM Yadav remarked that India’s Sanatan culture is founded on scientific principles, noting that many auspicious activities commence with the worship of the Navagrahas (nine planets). As Vikram Samvat 2082 is ushered in, he recognized Ujjain’s historical, artistic, cultural, and spiritual significance, asserting its role as a center of timekeeping dating back to the era of Samrat Vikramaditya.

He encouraged innovation while honoring traditional knowledge, aligning with the conference’s theme: ‘Development through Science, Technology, and Innovation Together.’ The event features diverse sessions exploring ancient Indian scientific traditions, with around 300 researchers and young scientists presenting papers on 17 themes.

The CM also highlighted the key policies introduced during the recent Global Investors Summit, including the ‘Drone Promotion and Industry Policy-2025,’ ‘Madhya Pradesh Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics & Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) Policy-2025,’ ‘Madhya Pradesh Semiconductor Policy-2025,’ and ‘Madhya Pradesh Global Capability Center (GCC) Policy-2025.’

He noted that, over the past decade, India has made remarkable advancements in science and technology under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, infusing vitality into the nation. Thanks to visionary initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ India continues to thrive in the defense and space sectors, establishing itself as a global leader.